New tram officers have the power

Passengers using the Gold Coast light rail system will be in safe hands as the new Customer Service Officers in charge of safety and security receive their powers of authority today.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson and Member for Southport Rob Molhoek welcomed 18 new officers to the team and today joined them on a test run of the tram network they will be protecting.

“We are committed to tackling anti-social behaviour and fare evasion on public transport and today’s graduation is part of our strong plan for a brighter public transport future,” Mr Emerson said.

“These officers will provide the frontline service that passengers on the tram network will recognise and trust on their daily travels.”

Member for Southport Rob Molhoek said it is great to see all officers graduating today are from the local area.

“We thank GoldLinQ’s commitment to providing local employment,” Mr Molhoek said.

“The new officers will be in charge of revenue protection, safety, security as well as a support to passengers during special events.”

Mr Emerson said this was an exciting milestone which followed eight months of testing the system including training 50 tram drivers.

“The light rail system is in its final phase, which will have the trams running to the operational timetable of 7.5 minutes on peak and 15 minutes off peak,” Mr Emerson said.

“Finishing works for footpaths, landscaping and station fit outs are being completed before passenger services begin.

“The project will revolutionise public transport for the Gold Coast community and get more people out of their cars, easing congestion on the road network.”

The $1.2 billion project consists of 14 trams, 16 stations servicing a 13-kilometre route and is jointly funded by State and Federal Governments and City of Gold Coast.

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 Media Contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625